George Michael has performed for the first time since his life-threatening battle with pneumonia.

The 48-year-old, whose life was hanging in the balance after he became ill late last year, returned to the stage at the Olympic closing ceremony.

Whilst his performance at the concert was meant to remain a secret, George could not contain his excitement and tweeted: "Spending most of next week rehearsing like crazy for the Olympic closing ceremony."

Having not appeared in front of a crowd for more than a year due to his illness, George admitted that he was "a bit nervous".

But the former Wham! singer overcame his fears and sang pop hit Freedom to the 80,000 strong crowd.

He sung to the excited athletes as the word "Freedom" was displayed across the stadium.

Clad in black leather, George also performed his latest upbeat song White Light.